Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method comprising: receiving user inputs from a user input device; monitoring a touch-sensitive display device for detection of a presence of the user input device via the touch-sensitive display device; when the user input device is detected as being located on the touch-sensitive display device via sensing of a capacitive pattern on a base of the user input device, and is connected via a wireless connection to the touch-sensitive display device, utilizing a first user input mode in which a first user interface for receiving inputs from the user input device is displayed on the touch-sensitive display device, the first user interface comprising user interface elements displayed at locations adjacent to a location of the input device on the touch-sensitive display device, tracking movement of the user input device, and moving the first user interface in response to tracking the movement of the user input device; and when the user input device is not detected as being located on the touch-sensitive display device as determined by not sensing the capacitive pattern and is connected via the wireless connection to the touch-sensitive display device, utilizing a second user input mode in which a second user interface for receiving inputs from the user input device is displayed on the touch-sensitive display device, wherein the user interface elements are displayed at predetermined locations on the touch-sensitive display device.
A method involves a system that adapts its user interface based on the physical presence and wireless connectivity of a user input device, such as a stylus or pen, relative to a touch-sensitive display. The system detects the input device's presence on the display by sensing a capacitive pattern on its base, enabling a first user input mode. In this mode, a user interface appears adjacent to the device's location on the display, with interface elements dynamically positioned near the device as it moves. The interface follows the device's movement, providing a localized interaction area. If the input device is not physically detected on the display but remains wirelessly connected, the system switches to a second user input mode. In this mode, the user interface elements are displayed at fixed, predetermined locations on the display, independent of the device's position. This adaptation allows seamless interaction whether the input device is placed directly on the display or used wirelessly nearby, optimizing usability based on the device's physical proximity. The method enhances user experience by dynamically adjusting the interface to match the input device's operational context.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the user interface elements include one or more selectable user interface elements.
A system and method for enhancing user interaction with digital interfaces involves providing a dynamic user interface that adapts to user behavior and preferences. The interface includes selectable elements such as buttons, icons, or menus that allow users to navigate or control functions within an application or device. These selectable elements are designed to be easily identifiable and interactive, enabling users to perform actions like selecting options, entering data, or triggering processes. The interface may also incorporate visual or auditory feedback to confirm user selections and improve usability. The system monitors user interactions to optimize the placement, size, and functionality of these elements, ensuring efficient and intuitive access to features. This approach aims to reduce user errors, streamline workflows, and enhance overall user experience by tailoring the interface to individual needs. The method may be applied in various digital environments, including software applications, mobile devices, and web-based platforms, to improve accessibility and functionality.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising receiving rotational input from the user input device; and in response to receiving the rotational input, changing a selection of the one or more selectable user interface elements.
A method for user interface interaction involves detecting rotational input from a user input device, such as a touchpad or trackball, and adjusting the selection of one or more selectable user interface elements in response. The method operates within a system where a user input device is configured to detect rotational gestures, such as twisting or swiping motions, and translate these into navigation commands. When a rotational input is received, the system processes the input to determine the direction and magnitude of rotation, then adjusts the selection focus among available user interface elements accordingly. This allows users to navigate through menus, lists, or other interactive elements by rotating the input device, providing an alternative to traditional pointing or tapping gestures. The method may be integrated into devices with limited display space or where precise pointing is difficult, enhancing usability by enabling intuitive, gesture-based navigation. The system may also include additional features, such as detecting linear input to perform other actions, ensuring a comprehensive input handling mechanism. The rotational input detection and selection adjustment are designed to work seamlessly with existing user interface frameworks, ensuring compatibility and ease of implementation.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting the presence of the user input device includes detecting a conductive pattern on the user input device.
A method for detecting the presence of a user input device, such as a stylus or touch pen, in a touch-sensitive system. The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying when a user input device is interacting with a touch-sensitive surface, particularly in environments where multiple input sources (e.g., fingers, passive styluses) may be present. The solution involves detecting a conductive pattern on the user input device, which distinguishes it from other input sources. This conductive pattern may be a specific arrangement of conductive elements or materials embedded in or on the device, allowing the system to recognize the device's unique electrical signature. The detection process may involve measuring electrical properties, such as capacitance or resistance, at the touch-sensitive surface to identify the presence of the conductive pattern. By leveraging this pattern, the system can differentiate the user input device from other input sources, improving accuracy and functionality in touch-based interactions. This method is particularly useful in touchscreen devices, digital drawing tablets, and other systems requiring precise input detection.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising sending a haptic feedback setting to the user input device, the haptic feedback setting instructing the user input device to output haptic feedback in response to a rotational input supplied via the user input device meeting a range of rotational input specified by the haptic feedback setting.
This invention relates to user input devices, particularly those incorporating haptic feedback to enhance user interaction. The problem addressed is the lack of dynamic haptic feedback in response to rotational inputs, which can reduce user experience and precision in applications requiring fine motor control. The method involves configuring a user input device, such as a knob or dial, to provide haptic feedback based on rotational input parameters. A haptic feedback setting is sent to the device, specifying a range of rotational input values that trigger feedback. When the user rotates the input device within this range, the device generates tactile feedback, such as vibrations or resistance, to confirm the input or guide the user. This setting can be adjusted to modify the feedback intensity, frequency, or the specific rotational range that triggers it. The system may also include detecting the rotational input, comparing it to the specified range, and generating the corresponding haptic response. This ensures real-time interaction, improving usability in applications like gaming, industrial controls, or virtual reality interfaces. The feedback can be customized for different tasks, enhancing precision and user confidence. The invention aims to provide a more intuitive and responsive input experience by dynamically linking haptic feedback to rotational input parameters.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising, responsive to receiving an indication from the user input device that a stylus has docked in a recess of the user input device, altering at least one function of a displayed user interface.
A method for enhancing user interaction with a computing device involves detecting when a stylus is docked in a recess of a user input device, such as a keyboard or trackpad, and dynamically altering the displayed user interface in response. The method includes monitoring the docking status of the stylus and modifying at least one function of the user interface based on this status. For example, the interface may switch between stylus-optimized and non-stylus modes, adjusting features like cursor behavior, gesture recognition, or available input options. The method may also involve enabling or disabling specific interface elements, such as touch-sensitive controls or handwriting recognition, depending on whether the stylus is docked. This approach improves usability by automatically adapting the interface to the user's current input method, reducing the need for manual adjustments. The method may further include storing user preferences for interface behavior in docked and undocked states to personalize the experience. The solution addresses the problem of inefficient transitions between different input modes, streamlining workflow by automatically configuring the interface based on stylus presence.
7. On a user input device having a rotational input mechanism and a haptic feedback mechanism, a method of providing haptic feedback, comprising: receiving a first haptic feedback setting mapping a first range of rotational input of the rotational input mechanism to a haptic feedback output, the first range comprising a first angular distance; receiving a first rotational input that meets the first range of rotational input at the input device, the first rotational input comprising a rotation in a first direction, and in response activating the haptic feedback mechanism; receiving a second haptic feedback setting mapping a second range of rotational input of the rotational input mechanism device to the haptic feedback output, the second range comprising a second angular distance different than the first angular distance; and receiving a second rotational input that meets the second range of rotational input of the input device, the second rotational input comprising another rotation in the first direction, and in response activating the haptic feedback mechanism; wherein the first and second haptic feedback settings are determined based on respective positions of one or more user interface elements in a user interface of a computing device receiving input from the user input device.
This invention relates to haptic feedback systems for user input devices with rotational mechanisms, such as knobs or dials, to enhance user interaction by providing tactile responses. The problem addressed is the lack of dynamic haptic feedback that adapts to changing user interface (UI) conditions, such as the positioning of UI elements like sliders, menus, or selection points. The solution involves a method where haptic feedback is triggered based on configurable angular ranges of rotation, allowing the feedback to align with UI element positions. The method operates on a user input device with a rotational input mechanism (e.g., a knob) and a haptic feedback mechanism (e.g., a motor or actuator). A first haptic feedback setting defines a first angular range of rotation that triggers feedback when the user rotates the input in a specific direction. The angular distance of this range is adjustable. When the user rotates the input within this range, the haptic feedback mechanism activates, providing tactile confirmation. A second haptic feedback setting defines a different angular range with a distinct angular distance, also triggering feedback when the input is rotated within this new range. The feedback settings are dynamically determined based on the positions of UI elements in a computing device's interface, ensuring the haptic responses align with the UI's layout. This adaptability improves user experience by providing context-aware feedback.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the haptic feedback mechanism is coupled to the rotational input mechanism.
A system provides haptic feedback in a user interface device to enhance interaction with a rotatable input mechanism. The rotatable input mechanism allows a user to input data or commands by rotating a physical component, such as a knob or dial. The system includes a haptic feedback mechanism that provides tactile responses to the user during rotation, such as vibrations, resistance, or detents, to confirm actions, guide navigation, or indicate boundaries. The haptic feedback mechanism is physically coupled to the rotational input mechanism, ensuring synchronized feedback with the user's input. This coupling may involve mechanical, electrical, or electromagnetic connections to ensure precise timing and responsiveness. The system may also include sensors to detect rotational position or speed, allowing the haptic feedback to adapt dynamically based on user input. The feedback can be programmed to vary in intensity, pattern, or timing to convey different types of information, such as menu selections, system status, or input validation. This integration improves user experience by providing intuitive and responsive tactile cues during interaction with the rotatable input mechanism.
9. An input device comprising: a control configured for rotation about an axis and for depression along the axis; a rotational encoder configured to sense rotation of the control; a base comprising a conductive pattern, the conductive pattern comprising a first conductive element, a second conductive element coplanar with the first conductive element, and a dielectric material separating the first conductive element and the second conductive element, wherein the control is rotatable and depressible relative to the base; a haptic feedback mechanism configured to output haptic feedback; and a communications subsystem configured to transmit information regarding rotation and depression of the control to a display device and configured to receive a haptic feedback setting from the display device for controlling the haptic feedback, wherein the haptic feedback setting includes an instruction for the haptic feedback mechanism to output haptic feedback in response to rotation of the control about the axis meeting a range of rotational input determined based on respective positions of one or more user interface elements in a user interface of the display device.
This invention relates to an input device designed for interactive user interfaces, addressing the need for precise rotational and depression input with integrated haptic feedback. The device includes a rotatable and depressible control mechanism, a rotational encoder to detect rotational movement, and a base featuring a conductive pattern with two coplanar conductive elements separated by a dielectric material. The conductive pattern enables capacitive or resistive sensing of depression input. A haptic feedback mechanism provides tactile responses, while a communications subsystem transmits input data (rotation and depression) to a connected display device and receives haptic feedback settings. These settings instruct the haptic feedback mechanism to generate tactile responses when the control's rotation aligns with predefined ranges corresponding to user interface elements on the display. The system ensures intuitive interaction by aligning physical feedback with on-screen elements, enhancing user experience in applications like gaming, navigation, or multimedia control. The device integrates mechanical input, sensing, and feedback into a compact form factor, improving responsiveness and user engagement.
10. The input device of claim 9 , wherein the rotational encoder is further configured to sense one or more of a speed and a direction of a rotational displacement of the control.
The invention relates to an input device with a rotational encoder for detecting rotational displacement of a control mechanism. The device addresses the need for precise and reliable sensing of rotational movement, including both speed and direction, in applications such as user interfaces, mechanical systems, or industrial controls. The rotational encoder is designed to measure one or more parameters of the rotational displacement, specifically the speed and direction of the control's movement. This allows for accurate tracking of rotational inputs, enabling responsive and adaptive control in various systems. The encoder may incorporate optical, magnetic, or mechanical sensing technologies to achieve high-resolution detection. The device ensures robust performance in dynamic environments, reducing errors and improving user experience or system efficiency. The integration of speed and direction sensing enhances functionality, enabling applications such as variable-speed control, directional feedback, or precise positioning. The invention is particularly useful in devices requiring fine-grained rotational input, such as knobs, dials, or rotary switches, where traditional encoders may lack the necessary sensitivity or accuracy. The encoder's design may include signal processing components to filter noise and improve measurement reliability, ensuring consistent performance across different operating conditions.
11. The input device of claim 9 , wherein the rotational encoder comprises an optical encoder.
An optical encoder-based input device provides precise rotational position and movement detection for user interfaces, particularly in applications requiring high-resolution input such as industrial controls, medical devices, or consumer electronics. The device includes a rotatable input element, such as a knob or dial, mechanically coupled to an optical encoder that converts rotational motion into digital signals. The optical encoder uses light detection to measure angular displacement, offering high accuracy and resolution compared to mechanical or magnetic encoders. The system may include a housing to support the encoder and input element, along with electrical connections for signal transmission. The optical encoder may employ a code wheel or linear scale with light-emitting and light-sensing components to track movement. This design reduces wear and tear, improves durability, and enhances responsiveness, addressing limitations of traditional mechanical encoders that suffer from mechanical degradation over time. The device may also incorporate additional features like tactile feedback or multi-turn detection for extended range applications. The optical encoder's digital output enables seamless integration with microcontrollers or processors for real-time input processing. This technology is particularly useful in environments where precision, reliability, and long-term performance are critical.
12. The input device of claim 9 , wherein the conductive pattern comprises a bullseye pattern.
This invention relates to an input device for detecting touch or proximity interactions, addressing the need for improved accuracy and sensitivity in touch-sensitive interfaces. The device includes a substrate with a conductive pattern that generates an electric field when excited by an alternating signal. The conductive pattern is designed to create a localized electric field that responds to changes caused by a user's touch or proximity, allowing the device to detect and process these interactions. The conductive pattern may include a bullseye pattern, which consists of concentric rings or other geometric shapes that enhance the electric field distribution. This design improves detection accuracy by providing a more uniform and controlled field, reducing interference and false readings. The pattern may be formed using conductive materials such as metal traces or conductive ink, and it can be integrated into various substrates like glass, plastic, or flexible materials. The device may also include a controller that processes signals from the conductive pattern to determine touch or proximity events. The controller can analyze changes in capacitance or other electrical properties to identify the location and intensity of interactions. The bullseye pattern helps optimize signal strength and resolution, making the device suitable for applications in touchscreens, touchpads, or other interactive surfaces. The invention aims to provide a robust and reliable input solution for electronic devices.
13. The input device of claim 9 , further comprising a door openable to access a power source of the input device, the door biased toward a closed position via a spring-biased hinge and held in the closed position via one or more magnets.
This invention relates to an input device with an improved access mechanism for its power source. The device includes a door that can be opened to access the power source, such as a battery or other internal components. The door is designed to automatically close and remain securely shut when not in use. A spring-biased hinge ensures the door is biased toward a closed position, providing a consistent closing force. Additionally, one or more magnets hold the door in the closed position, ensuring it remains securely fastened until intentionally opened. This design prevents accidental access to the power source while allowing easy manual opening when needed. The door mechanism is particularly useful in portable or handheld devices where durability and ease of maintenance are important. The spring-biased hinge and magnetic closure work together to maintain a tight seal, protecting internal components from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. The invention ensures reliable access to the power source while maintaining device integrity.
14. The input device of claim 9 , wherein the communications subsystem is further configured to transmit information regarding one or more of a rotational displacement of the control sensed by the rotational encoder, a communication pairing signal, and a battery life indication of a battery in the input device.
This invention relates to an input device with enhanced communication capabilities, particularly for transmitting operational and status data. The device includes a control mechanism with a rotational encoder that detects rotational displacement, allowing precise input tracking. A communications subsystem enables wireless transmission of this rotational data, along with additional information such as pairing signals for device synchronization and battery life indicators to monitor power levels. The system ensures seamless integration with external devices by providing real-time feedback on the input device's operational state, improving user experience and system efficiency. The rotational encoder's high-resolution sensing ensures accurate input detection, while the communication subsystem's multi-functional transmission capabilities enhance versatility. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control and reliable status monitoring, such as gaming controllers, industrial interfaces, or medical devices. The invention addresses the need for compact, responsive input devices that can dynamically communicate their operational parameters without requiring physical connections.
15. The input device of claim 9 , further comprising a light source configured to output a low battery life indication.
The invention relates to an input device designed to provide feedback to a user, particularly in the context of battery life monitoring. The device includes a light source that is specifically configured to output a low battery life indication, alerting the user when the battery power is depleted or critically low. This feature ensures that the user is promptly notified of the device's battery status, preventing unexpected power loss during operation. The input device may incorporate additional functionalities, such as haptic feedback or visual indicators, to enhance user interaction. The light source may be integrated into the device's housing or positioned in a manner that ensures visibility to the user. The low battery life indication can be triggered by a predefined threshold, ensuring timely alerts before the battery is completely drained. This invention addresses the need for reliable and intuitive battery monitoring in portable input devices, improving user experience and device usability.
16. The input device of claim 9 , further comprising a first material on a first portion of a surface of the base and a second material on a second portion of the surface of the base, the first material configured for sliding movement across the display device, the second material configured to oppose the sliding movement across the display device.
This invention relates to an input device designed for use with a display device, addressing the challenge of providing precise and controlled interaction with touch-sensitive displays. The device includes a base with a surface divided into two distinct portions, each covered by different materials. The first material, positioned on a first portion of the base's surface, is optimized for smooth sliding movement across the display device, enabling fluid and responsive touch interactions. The second material, applied to a second portion of the base's surface, is engineered to resist or oppose sliding movement, providing stability and preventing unintended touch inputs. This dual-material design allows the input device to selectively engage or disengage with the display surface, enhancing control and accuracy during use. The base may also incorporate a housing for electronic components, such as sensors or processors, to further refine input detection and processing. The combination of sliding and non-sliding materials ensures that the device can adapt to various user needs, whether requiring smooth gestures or stable positioning. This innovation improves the usability of touch-based interfaces by offering a more dynamic and responsive interaction method.
17. The input device of claim 9 , further comprising a recess including a sensor configured to sense docking of a stylus in the recess, the communications subsystem further configured to transmit an indication of the docking of the stylus.
This invention relates to an input device, specifically a stylus, designed to enhance user interaction with electronic devices. The device addresses the problem of managing and tracking stylus usage, particularly when the stylus is docked or undocked from a compatible input device. The stylus includes a recess that houses a sensor capable of detecting when the stylus is docked within the recess. Upon sensing docking, the device's communications subsystem transmits a signal indicating the docking status to a connected system, such as a computer or tablet. This feature enables automatic tracking of the stylus's presence, improving user experience by reducing manual checks and ensuring the stylus is readily available when needed. The sensor and communications subsystem work together to provide real-time feedback, which can be used for various applications, including power management, security, or user interface adjustments. The invention ensures seamless integration between the stylus and the input device, enhancing functionality and usability.
18. The input device of claim 9 , further comprising a recess configured to receive and charge the stylus.
This invention relates to an input device for electronic systems, particularly for touch-sensitive displays or digitizers, where the device includes a stylus for user interaction. The problem addressed is the need for a compact and integrated solution that combines the input device with a stylus, ensuring the stylus is readily available and properly charged when needed. The input device includes a housing with a touch-sensitive surface and a stylus that can be detached for use. The stylus is designed to interact with the touch-sensitive surface, allowing precise input. To enhance usability, the input device further includes a recess specifically configured to receive and charge the stylus when not in use. This recess ensures the stylus is stored securely within the device, maintaining alignment and connection for charging. The charging mechanism may involve inductive or direct contact charging, depending on the design. The recess is positioned to allow easy access to the stylus while ensuring it remains charged and ready for use. This integration improves convenience and reliability, as the stylus is always available and properly powered. The overall design aims to provide a seamless user experience by combining storage and charging functionality within the input device itself.
Unknown
August 20, 2019
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